NYT: Street View Coming To Google Maps Web App In Two Weeks

On Tuesday, The New York Times reported that Google is currently working on a native Google Maps app for iOS, which is expected to make its debut before the end of the year. But in the meantime, it will be bringing Street View to its web app so that you can enjoy the much-loved feature in mobile Safari.

When Apple yanked Google Maps from iOS, it didn’t just take away its accurate (and complete!) maps; it also pulled Street View, the service’s most unique feature.

For me, this was the biggest disappointment. I can still access Google Maps via my web browser when I need to, but Street View isn’t available in the mobile web app. So the only way to enjoy Street View now would be to use my desktop, or to pull out my Android-powered Galaxy Nexus.

But that won’t be the case in a fortnight, according to NYT columnist David Pogue:

You can still use Google’s maps — on the Web. Visit maps.google.com and accept the offer to create a Home-screen icon for you. You won’t get spoken directions, but you’ll get written directions, public transportation details, live traffic reports and, of course, Google’s far superior maps and data. (In two weeks, you’ll be able to get Street View this way, too, says Google.)

This is great news, because for Street View lovers like me, Google’s web app will be able to fill the void on iOS 6 until its official Google Maps app hits the App Store. We will, of course, be sure to let you know when Street View goes live in the web app.

And why does that matter? There is absolutely nothing wrong with Apple maps. Most complaints are from idiots who don’t know how to use maps in the first place.

Ryan Fitzpatrick

Will google maps allow turn by turn directions in the web app? If not, then this doesn’t matter to me…Is there something about google maps that I’m missing? Do you guys go and just stare at maps all day or something? I ONLY use it for directions, but without google allowing turn by turn it kinda sucked for me. Who wants to look down at their device to see where they’re at?

Andy Murdock

These two giants making competing map apps is a good deal for consumers.

hanhothi

Great, that will tide me over until a real Maps App from Google comes out. Googles maps are the best! Apple can then stick their app up sideways, rounded corners or not.